Crime/Police
BVI police arrests another female suspect in human trafficking probe
By MERRICK ANDREWS
Online News Editor
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said Wednesday (Feb. 8) it has arrested a female on suspicion of money laundering in connection with its ongoing human trafficking investigations in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).
The female was subsequently released pending further investigations, the RVIPF said in a press release.
The arrest stemmed from the execution of three additional search warrants, the RVIPF added.
The RVIPF said it can make no further comment on the matter because the investigations are active.
It, however, further stated that “persons are invited to contact Crimestoppers anonymously through its tipline 800 8477 or if overseas call 1-284-800-8477 if there is suspected human trafficking or you are a victim of this modern-day slavery. Persons with information can also call the RVIPF directly through its three-digit access number 311”.
This development comes after 37-year old Genette Colastin of Pockwood Pond, Tortola was arrested and charged in connection with a “complex and far-reaching” ongoing human trafficking investigation, according to a RVIPF statement released on Saturday, Feb. 4.
RVIPF Press Officer Diane Drayton said in the statement that Colastin was among three persons who were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking when police executed a search warrant on Thursday.
Four people believed to be human trafficking victims from another island were rescued and placed in the custody of the Immigration Department.
No further details were released about the alleged victims or the specific circumstances which led to the arrests, however, Police Commissioner Mark Collins said in statement that the human trafficking investigation is “complex and far-reaching”.
Collins further stated that human trafficking, also known as modern-day slavery, is a problem all over the world. He urged residents to contact the police at Crime Stoppers, anonymously, on 284-800-8477, if they suspect human trafficking.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Crime/Police
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
Richard Barronville and Khalid Smith have been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and unlawful possession of explosives following a routine inspection of a vessel in the Frenchman’s Cay area on Thursday by the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Marine Base Joint Task Force.
A statement from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) indicated that the two men—Barronville, 32, of Long Bush, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Smith, 24, from the United States—are expected to appear before the Magistrates’ Court at the next available sitting.
They were arrested on November 14 shortly after 11 a.m. by members of the Joint Task Force, which included officers from the RVIPF and His Majesty’s Customs.
A firearm and ammunition were discovered in the possession of the duo, who were subsequently taken to the Road Town Police Station.
The RVIPF urges anyone with information regarding individuals in possession of illegal firearms to contact Crime Stoppers confidentially at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas at (284) 800-8477, or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
Crime/Police
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking assistance from the public in locating K’Shawn Martin, 18, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent shooting incident. Martin, described as 5’9” with a slim build, dark skin, and black hair, is being linked to the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, on Sand Box Road.
Authorities report that Martin, last known to reside in the Sand Box Road area, may be armed and is considered dangerous. The RVIPF warns the public not to approach Martin if seen and instead urges anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the search for Martin, police are also requesting information regarding the whereabouts of another individual, Shemoi Carey, who is also sought by the RVIPF’s Criminal Investigation Department. Tips can be directed to RVIPF’s CID at 368-5323. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
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